In 2021, Erica Traversy and Chris Dolliver moved to East Lawrencetown, located on the Eastern Shore. New to the area, Erica wanted to explore by hiking and paddling, but she was unsure how to navigate public access to natural spaces. In Ontario (where she had moved from), Crown land is more abundant than private land, but in Nova Scotia she found it difficult to determine which parts of the coast were open for hiking and paddling and which were privately owned.

This question eventually led her to the Nova Scotia Nature Trust. The organization was already on her radar thanks to her mother’s involvement with environmental groups during the 100 Wild Islands campaign. That early exposure, paired with the couple’s kayaking adventures, inspired her to learn more about conservation in her new province and where public lands were located.

What stood out to Erica was the Nature Trust’s unique approach to protecting land through securement, especially along the coast. She was drawn to the idea of preserving these wild spaces as a way of giving back. After connecting with Christina from the Nature Trust team, Erica was encouraged to become a Property Guardian. She encouraged Chris to join her in volunteering. Chris, a former fire ranger and lifelong outdoorsman, brought his skills and enthusiasm for the outdoors by becoming a volunteer alongside Erica. The opportunity felt like a natural fit for both of them and their shared love of nature. Through training sessions and volunteer events, they connected with other Nature Trust volunteers and were introduced to one of the organization’s coastal properties near the 100 Wild Islands, a remote and challenging site that they quickly came to appreciate. The location held extra meaning as Erica’s family lives nearby, and it’s an area they hope to move closer to in the future.

For Erica and Chris, volunteering has provided more than an opportunity to give back: it has opened doors to new friendships, experiences, and a deeper understanding of the landscapes they help care for. From taking part in a group “Hub Blitz” day to paddling out to Gerard Island with fellow stewards, they’ve had the chance to explore places they might never have visited on their own. These hands-on experiences have also helped build their confidence with sea kayaking even further.

One project that left a lasting impression on Erica was their involvement in the trail camera pilot program. The property they were monitoring was small and not far from well-traveled areas, so they weren’t expecting much. But when they reviewed the footage, they were amazed. The camera captured a coyote, a fox, and a bobcat moving through the area. For Erica, seeing these wild animals up close was an exciting way to see wildlife and contribute to conservation monitoring. 

Beyond the fieldwork, they’ve also enjoyed the social side of being part of the Nature Trust community. They attended the organization’s 30th anniversary gala in April—a festive evening that offered a chance to celebrate conservation successes and connect with other supporters and volunteers.

Whether they’re bushwhacking through thick brush, checking trail cams, or simply saying yes to new opportunities, Erica and Chris show how curiosity, care, and small actions can lead to meaningful impact.

Thank you to Erica and Chris for their commitment and dedication to nature! We invite you to learn more about our Property Guardians program.